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Hearing loss is often thought of as a gradual process as you age, which can be accelerated or exacerbated by loud noise exposure or inherited hearing loss. For others, hearing loss can occur suddenly.
Compared to presbycusis hearing loss – the most common type of diminished hearing that occurs due to aging – sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a less common disorder that typically affects only one ear.
Dr. Lindsey Trefz, a CEENTA otolaryngologist who practices out of our Monroe office, elaborates on hearing loss progression. “The hearing loss itself can happen in an instant or progress over the span of a week. Due to the sudden nature of the hearing change, many people will experience ear fullness as a primary symptom.”
In many cases, the exact cause of SSHL is unknown, but the most common causes of this type of hearing loss include:
The commonality between these potential causes is damage to the cochlea and its hair cells that are responsible for converting sound waves to electrical signals for the brain.
The most obvious sign of SSHL is reduced hearing within 72 hours. With that said, you may not be aware that your hearing loss has diminished. Some key signs that this has happened include turning up the volume on your devices, leaning in to hear, and asking others to repeat themselves.
Additional signs that you may have sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss include:
Hearing loss that happens rapidly or within a few days should be considered a medical emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to restoring most if not all of the hearing. For SSHL that is not treated immediately or has not improved with medical therapy, hearing loss may be permanent. As a result, evidence supports treatment starting within fourteen days of symptom onset.
Your physician may recommend the following treatment options:
If hearing loss persists, the best method of management is often with a prescriptive hearing aid that is chosen specifically for your level of hearing loss.
Whether your hearing loss is happening over time or the result of a serious condition, CEENTA is here to help. Our team of board-certified ENT physicians partner with audiologists to diagnose and treat both gradual and sudden onset hearing loss, including the use of curated hearing aids from quality brands.
To schedule your next appointment with Dr. Trefz at our Monroe location, use our online scheduling tool or myCEENTAchart if you are an existing patient.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.
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Audiologist Greer Baily, AuD, appeared on WCNC's Charlotte Today on October 18, 2024 to discuss pediatric hearing loss and cochlear implants.
